Map of proposed pastoral areas. Photo: Diocese of Cloyne. “There isn’t a date fixed because there’s still some reflection going on… but certainly it’ll be short term rather than long term,” a senior diocesan official has said of plans to introduce new pastoral areas in the Diocese of Cloyne.
Canon James Moore told The Irish Catholic that the proposals are still being refined ahead of a key clergy meeting on May 18, following a year-long process of consultation across the diocese.
The restructuring will see priests serving across wider pastoral areas rather than being assigned solely to individual parishes, while existing parish structures will remain in place.
Canon Moore said the plan has been shaped by widespread local engagement, including regional meetings and parish consultations. “In one [meeting], there was over 100 in attendance… that has all formulated the outcome,” he said, adding that “changes [were] made along the way” in response to feedback. He said the process has also brought into focus the many practical realities facing the diocese.
While declining priest numbers played a role, Canon Moore said they were not the sole driver: “That’s probably the first driver, but not now the primary driver… it might be the ignition key.”
In his pastoral letter, Bishop William Crean said the aim is “the development of a new structure… that would ensure the pastoral care of all”.
Similarly Canon Moore stressed that the move is not a merger of parishes but a new model of shared care, with parishes retaining their autonomy. Further details, including a timeline, are expected following ongoing consultations.